A criminal court in Cuenca has sentenced Christian David A. to 21 years and four months in prison for extortionate kidnapping, applying aggravated circumstances that increased the penalty.
The ruling also orders the payment of $1,000 to the victim as compensation.
• Sentence increased due to aggravating factors
• Victim abducted during public event
• One suspect remains at large
The case dates back to August 3, 2025, when the victim, a rehabilitation center coordinator, was kidnapped during a soccer tournament at El Oriente Park in Totoracocha. He was forced into a vehicle despite attempts by family members and others to stop it.
The kidnappers took him to a remote area, where they demanded $2,000. During captivity, the victim was assaulted before being abandoned. He later managed to seek help and required medical treatment, with injuries leading to 90 days of incapacity.
Investigators identified one suspect, known as “Chino,” who remains a fugitive and had prior contact with the victim. Authorities linked the crime to earlier demands for money.
Police located the vehicle used in the kidnapping in the Balzay sector, leading to the arrest of Christian David A. The victim identified him as the driver and one of the attackers.
Evidence presented in court included surveillance footage, forensic analysis of the vehicle, and medical records supporting the case.
The court determined that aggravating circumstances applied, resulting in a longer sentence than the standard penalty for this type of crime.